A new independent study commissioned by Billtrust, a leader in B2B accounts receivable software, reveals that artificial intelligence (AI) has become a non-negotiable tool for modern AR teams. The research highlights that AI is delivering tangible results, enabling companies to accelerate payments, unlock liquidity, and scale operations efficiently in a volatile economic climate without increasing headcount.
Quick Intel
A Billtrust study finds 99% of companies using AI in AR have reduced Days Sales Outstanding (DSO).
75% of those companies reduced DSO by six days or more.
82% scaled their AR operations by 11% or more without adding new staff.
90% believe their AR process will struggle to scale without AI.
Top use cases are anomaly detection, cash application, and predictive forecasting.
Despite benefits, integration challenges and a need for employee buy-in remain key hurdles.
AI Drives Measurable Financial Improvements
The survey of 500 finance decision-makers found that the adoption of AI in accounts receivable is yielding significant financial benefits. The vast majority of companies using AI have successfully reduced their DSO, a critical metric for cash flow health, with three-quarters achieving a reduction of at least six days. Furthermore, an overwhelming majority have scaled their operations significantly without the need to hire additional staff, demonstrating AI's direct impact on efficiency and cost control.
Overcoming Barriers to Maximize Value
While 94% of companies are using or experimenting with AI in AR, full implementation faces obstacles. These include integration challenges with outdated systems and a lack of internal AI skillsets. The research also indicates that mindset is a critical factor, with 89% of respondents believing they won't fully capitalize on AI until their teams shift their perspective, underscoring the importance of training and change management. Becky Carr, Chief Marketing Officer at Billtrust, stated, "This research confirms what we're seeing in the market: AI is no longer a future consideration. It is a present-day necessity for AR teams looking to thrive."
A Nuanced but Optimistic Outlook
The study reveals a spectrum of attitudes toward AI adoption, ranging from those who see it as essential with safeguards to a small minority who oppose its use in AR. However, optimism is prevalent, with 71% of companies planning to increase their investment in AR AI over the next year. Paul Bragan, senior partner at Wakefield Research, said, "These findings demonstrate the value that AI brings to AR, and how employee buy-in is vital. The data provides a roadmap of how to integrate this technology and capitalize on the increased efficiencies."
The findings cement AI's role as a core component of a modern, strategic accounts receivable function. For finance leaders, the message is clear: integrating AI is no longer an option for gaining a competitive edge but a fundamental requirement for accelerating cash flow, ensuring operational scalability, and maintaining financial stability.
Finance leaders choose Billtrust to get paid faster, control costs, and maximize customer satisfaction. As a B2B accounts receivable workflow and payment software market leader, we provide the world's leading brands with AI-powered solutions to delight their buyers across the full AR lifecycle—from invoice presentment to payment application. With more than $1 trillion invoice dollars processed, Billtrust delivers business value through deep industry expertise and a culture relentlessly focused on meaningful customer outcomes.
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